NYS Music 2024

Category: NYC Metro

  • Posthumous Solo Debut by James Casey to Release on August 28 One Year After His Passing

    Beloved R&B and soul saxophonist musician James Casey will posthumously release his debut album, The Kauai Project, on Wednesday, August 28. The album’s release will come one year after he passed away from colon cancer at age 40.

    The Kauai Project james casey

    Although James Casey only recently emerged on New York City’s R&B and soul scene, he has been making waves in the music industry for years. From touring with classic funk band Lettuce to joining Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio’s solo band to sharing the stage with legends like The Roots, Chaka Khan, J. Cole, Wu-Tang and Dave Matthews Band, Casey has accomplished more than most musicians could ever hope. This makes it all the more surprising that Casey had never released music under his own name until the 2020s.

    Casey’s attitude towards his musical legacy abruptly shifted gears, though, when he was diagnosed with Stage III colorectal cancer at just 38 years of age in August 2021, which served as an awakening in so many ways. Deciding to make the most of his time, both for himself and for others, Casey let go of all limits to his musical career and, for the first time, prioritized his own musical legacy.

    James Casey

    The seeds of his debut, The Kauai Project, were planted while he lived on the Hawaiian island of Kauai for nearly two years. While working on a COVID-era side project, Casey produced tracks with acapella samples to promote his and fellow musicians’ virtual live stream events. The resulting catalog of beats became the foundation and inspiration for his solo debut. Alongside Casey’s announcement of his plans for The Kauai Project, he released his first single, “New Bloom,” in March 2023.

    In turn, Casey produced a mini-documentary to highlight his journey of stepping out as a solo artist in parallel to the stark reality of his terminal diagnosis. He aimed to transform his difficult reality into a call to action for others to avoid his fate—to be their own health advocate, get colonoscopies, and know your family history of cancer. “The thing about colon cancer is it is preventable if you catch it early enough,” Casey told the Today Show in March 2023, sharing how the lyrics for “New Bloom” were his mantra for positivity in the face of any circumstance. “If I’ve got today then that’s enough, I can do something with this time.”

    Entrusting the EP’s final act to his close musical family, the last single from The Kauai Project, “This Place (pars Animus)”, will release on August 28. The song is a tribute to his band Animus Rexx, an explosive fusion project established with musicians Randy Runyon, Reuben Cainer, BIGYUKI, and Justin Tyson. Runyon and Cainer provided the song’s finishing touches, while his wife, Ayla Casey, laid the groundwork to carry his mission and debut EP forward.

    “I am beyond grateful to help honor James’ life with the culmination of a project that meant so much to him,” said Ayla Casey. “James did not want his absence to weigh on us – please join me in celebrating the love and joy his music continues to cultivate.”

    Following his passing, Casey’s family and friends hosted a sold-out memorial party at the Brooklyn Bowl in November 2023, which featured performances by Trey Anastasio, Louis Cato, Nikki Glaspie, Jennifer Hartswick, Brady Watt, and dozens of other musicians that shared the stage with James throughout his career. The benefit concert raised more than $32,000 to support cancer charities hand-picked by Casey for their work in the community.

    The Kauai Project limited-edition vinyl pre-order is available now via Relix Marketplace, with vinyl shipments starting in September. For more information about James Casey’s life, advocacy and music, and to pre-order The Kauai Project, visit here.

  • The Bangles’ Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill from The Beach Boys Bring a Heartfelt Tribute to the LIMEHOF

    Vicki Peterson, known for her role as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the iconic all-female rock band The Bangles, joined her husband, John Cowsill, drummer and vocalist for The Beach Boys, for a memorable performance at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. Additionally, the duo’s show marked a poignant tribute to John’s late brothers, Bill and Barry Cowsill, with a selection of songs from their upcoming album, Long After the Fire. The project, which features songs written by Bill and Barry Cowsill, is set for release in early 2025.

    Vicki Peterson: From Bangles to New Beginnings

    Vicki Peterson’s journey in the music industry began with The Bangles in the early 1980s. Formed in Los Angeles, the band became one of the most successful female-led rock groups of the decade. Moreover, with hits like “Manic Monday,” “Walk Like an Egyptian,” and “Eternal Flame,” The Bangles carved out a significant place in the annals of pop and rock music. Peterson’s intricate guitar work and harmonious vocals were key elements in the band’s distinctive sound, which blended 1960s garage rock with the melodic sensibilities of the 1980s.

    Following the band’s initial disbandment in 1989, Peterson pursued various musical projects, including working with the Continental Drifters and releasing solo material. However, the Bangles reunited in 1999, continuing to perform and record, allowing Peterson to revisit and expand upon the band’s musical legacy. Her collaboration with John Cowsill on Long After the Fire represents a new chapter in her career, blending her musical past with new inspirations and partnerships.

    John Cowsill: Carrying the Legacy of The Beach Boys and The Cowsills

    John Cowsill’s musical roots run deep. As a member of The Cowsills, a family band that rose to fame in the late 1960s, John was part of hits like “The Rain, The Park & Other Things” and “Hair.” Similarly. the Cowsills’ music was characterized by rich vocal harmonies and a pop sensibility that mirrored the era’s optimistic sound. In 2000, John joined The Beach Boys as their drummer and vocalist, a role he has embraced for the past 23 years. In addition, his dynamic performances have helped sustain the band’s legendary status in the music world.

    A Heartfelt Tribute and Personal Insights

    After their performance, I had the opportunity to speak with both Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill. Peterson shared insights into the couple’s evolving musical chemistry, noting that each night of their collaboration feels fresh and enjoyable. Her favorite track from their new project is a soulful song she sings, along with a timeless piece written by Barry Cowsill. She also highlighted the significant contributions of Paul Allen, a multi-instrumentalist from Nashville, who played various instruments and produced the album.

    In my conversation with John Cowsill, he introduced their new project, Long After the Fire, a labor of love that has been in the works for the past few years. The project faced delays due to John’s commitments with The Beach Boys and Vicki’s touring schedule. Much of the recording took place at their home studio allowing the couple to work closely and intimately on the music.

    John discussed the challenges they faced in navigating the modern music industry, such as understanding ISWC codes, ISNI numbers, and metadata management. He expressed concern that without these codes, they risk losing revenue from their music. The complexities of securing consistent publishing were also a hurdle, as companies can be bought or absorbed, changing the original agreements.

    Looking Forward

    As Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill prepare to release Long After the Fire in early 2025, their performance at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame offered a glimpse into a project that honors the legacy of John’s late brothers while showcasing the couple’s unique musical bond. Furthermore, their dedication to preserving the music of Bill and Barry Cowsill, combined with their passion for creating new sounds, promises to make this album a standout addition to their respective careers.

  • Wale Announces ‘Every Blue Moon Tour’ With New York Show Announced

    Rap artist Wale just announced the “Every Blue Moon Tour” in celebration his upcoming album and the 15th anniversary of his debut album.

    The live nations tour will stop at Irving Plaza in New York on Oct. 5. The Blue Moon tour is a 32 city journey starting in Fort Lauderdale on Sept. 19 and ending in Birmingham, Alabama on Nov. 7. 

    About Wale

    Wale was born in Washington D.C. to Nigerian parents. After graduating high school, he studied at Bowie State University but dropped out to pursue his rap career. He dropped his first single “Dig Dug” in 2006 and his first album in 2008. A Mixtape About Nothing put him on the Hip Hop map. His legendary 12 albums continued to establish the new rapper on the scene. Currently Wale is one of the most accomplished hip hop artists from the DMV area.

    In 2023, he signed a new deal with Def Jam records and was featured on Odumodublvck’s “Blood On The Dance Floor.” He celebrated the 10th anniversary of his album Gifted with a performance at the Kennedy Center. His 8th album is yet to be announced but is set to be performed on this upcoming tour.
    Tickets are available with the general sale on Aug.16. You can visit LiveNation.org for more tour information.

    EVERY BLUE MOON TOUR 2024 DATES: 

    Thu Sep 19 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Revolution Live

    Fri Sep 20 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live

    Mon Sep 23 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Music Hall

    Wed Sep 25 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works

    Fri Sep 27 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle 

    Sat Sep 28 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz

    Sun Sep 29 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte 

    Tue Oct 01 – McKees Rocks, PA – Roxian Theatre 

    Thu Oct 03 – Philadelphia, PA – Theatre of Living Arts

    Fri Oct 04 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club 

    Sat Oct 05 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza

    Mon Oct 07 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues Cleveland 

    Tue Oct 08 – Toronto, ON – Danforth Music Hall 

    Thu Oct 10 – Detroit, MI – Saint Andrew’s Hall 

    Fri Oct 11 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues Chicago 

    Sat Oct 12 – Minneapolis, MN – Uptown Theater

    Mon Oct 14 – Denver, CO – Summit 

    Tue Oct 15 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot 

    Fri Oct 18 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom 

    Sat Oct 19 – Seattle Washington – Neptune Theatre

    Sun Oct 20 – Portland, OR – Roseland Theater

    Wed Oct 23 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore 

    Fri Oct 25 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern

    Sat Oct 26 – San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park 

    Sun Oct 27 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren 

    Tue Oct 29 – San Antonio, TX – Aztec Theatre

    Thu Oct 31 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues Dallas 

    Fri Nov 01 – Austin, TX – Emo’s Austin 

    Sat Nov 02 – Houston, TX – House of Blues Houston 

    Tue Nov 05 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues New Orleans 

    Wed Nov 06 – Mobile, AL – Soul Kitchen Music Hall

    Thu Nov 07 – Birmingham, AL – Iron City 

  • State Champs Prepare for Nationwide Tour, One Stop in New York

    Albany-born and bred punk band State Champs gear up for a nationwide tour this fall, starting on November 8 in Austin, Texas. Joining them are supporting acts Knuckle Puck, Meet Me at The Altar, and Daisy Grenade.

    State Champs will end their tour in their home state, closing the tour at Manhattan’s Webster Hall on December 7.

     CREDIT: Manuel Barajas

    For the last decade, State Champs have become a household name in the world of pop-punk. The band is comprised of singer Derek DiScanio, guitarist Tyler Szalkowski, bassist Ryan Scott Graham, and drummer Evan Ambrosio. Starting with the release of their debut album, The Finer Things, State Champs have been gathering fans of all generations to enjoy

    Together, they have played at numerous festivals, including Alive at 5 and Frozen Fire. They have written alongside some of the genre’s biggest names, including Mark Hoppus of Blink-182 and Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low.

    Over the years, State Champs received massive critical acclaim. From Kerrang!, to Upset, Alternative Press, and Rock Sound, they have been met with astounding support from fans and rock critics alike. In 2018, after the release of their third album, Living Proof, Billboard dubbed them “modern-day pop-punk torchbearers.”

    state champs

    Live performances with State Champs are nothing if not passionate and energetic, this tour being no exception. They always focus on keeping their energy and giving the crowd something they will never forget. Authenticity is the priority, exemplified by Evan Ambrosio’s statements in a past interview: “We focus on life as we experience it, not an event we didn’t have a part in. We write about things that stay true to what we experience, and not try to jump on a trend of ultimate sadness or TikTok videos, so we can maintain authenticity and stay true to what the band has built up.”

    Tickets are on sale to the public this Friday, August 16, at 12:00 PM local time. They can be purchased on Sate Champs’ website.

    State Champs 2024 North America Tour Dates

    November 8 – Austin, TX – Emo’s

    November 9 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues

    November 11 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren

    November 13 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues

    November 14 – Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre

    November 15 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom

    November 16 – Seattle, WA – Showbox Sodo

    November 18 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot

    November 19 – Denver, CO – Summit Music Call

    November 22 – Detroit, MI – The Majestic

    November 23 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room

    November 24 – Cleveland, OH – The Agora

    November 26 – Toronto, ON – Danforth Music Hall

    November 27 – Cincinnati, OH – Bogarts*

    November 29 – Nashville, TN – Cannery Mainstage

    November 30 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade

    December 1 – Orlando, FL – House of Blues

    December 3 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore

    December 4 – Boston, MA – House of Blues

    December 6 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore

    December 7 – New York, NY – Webster Hall

    *No Knuckle Puck

  • South Korean Singer Saay Makes Her U.S. Debut at Brooklyn’s Elsewhere Zone One

    South Korean soul singer, Saay, made her US debut at Elsewhere on Friday, August 9, her first show in the US after twelve years in the industry, seven of which have been as a soloist. The Korean artist recently came back with a new single, Domino, a bouncy track with digitally harmonized synth vocals, a la Imogen Heap’s hit song “Hide and Seek.” Her contract with Universal Music Korea also expired last month, but when asked about physical releases of her music during the show, she said she is planning to release a new EP next year.

    Saay debuted in Korea twelve years ago as part of the group EvoL but began her solo career seven years ago with the release of her single “Circle” in July of 2017. This was a one-off show in Brooklyn, followed by another at The Moroccan Lounge in Los Angeles on August 15th. Before her Elsewhere show, she also sang “Domino” on Fox’s Good Day New York. Expect more great content from Saay this week on social media as she experiences LA and continues to share photos and videos from her show at Elsewhere.

    Performance

    Elsewhere Zone One provided the perfect venue for this kind of intimate, emotionally charged show full of fan interaction. As people started filtering into the venue, the room’s cumulative energy made for a shared cathartic moment. A small, low-set stage puts the artist up close with fans. The production at Elsewhere was low-key. Besides the LED panel covering the wall behind Saay, a contrasting pair of purple and blue lights lit the stage.

    Korean artists are always skilled at creating meaningful interactions with their fans, but you could clearly tell how much this show meant to Saay, at times bringing her to tears. During the show, she wore a Lucky Dragon hat that a fan later recognized as one they had given Saay at a past concert. She ended her set with a song ironically titled “Encore,” which was then followed by the actual encore, her breakout hit (and a personal favorite) from 2019, “ZGZG.”

    After the final song, she stayed on stage to speak candidly to the audience and to tell everyone to get home safely, stay healthy, and eat well. We look forward to seeing footage of Saay’s August 15th show at the Moroccan Lounge and wish her luck in her future endeavors. Keep an eye out for new music from Saay in the next year and, hopefully, a return to New York following her upcoming EP.

    Saay – Elsewhere Zone One – August 9, 2024

    Setlist: Talk 2 Me Nice, Overzone, Baad, Omega, Circle, Domino, Rocky, Sh*t Makerrrrrrrr, I’m Okay, Sweet as Hell, Encore

    Encore: ZGZG

  • Brooklyn Based DIIV Returns With New Album

    DIIV, a beloved band from Brooklyn, has once again captured the hearts of fans with their latest album, Frog in Boiling Water. This record showcases a band that has truly evolved while staying true to their atmospheric roots. The album and its singles—such as “Brown Paper Bag,”—have been met with widespread fan acclaim.

    DIIV @ Brooklyn Paramount 8/7/2024 by Sam Schraub

    The Album

    Frog in Boiling Water is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to DIIV’s perseverance and growth. The album’s creation was a four-year odyssey that nearly pushed the band to its limits. With a desire to push their sound to new frontiers, DIIV embarked on an ambitious journey, navigating their own relationships and the pressures of the music industry. Fraying friendships, financial strains, and creative differences marked the process, but the band emerged from this chaos with an album that dives deep into new lyrical and musical territories.

    DIIV @ Brooklyn Paramount 8/7/2024 by Sam Schraub

    The result is a record that is as gorgeous as it is haunted. Frog in Boiling Water balances powerful rhythms inspired by post-industrial sounds, creating a sound that is both mighty and ethereal. It’s a mesmeric reflection on endurance, capturing the essence of existing.

    DIIV @ Brooklyn Paramount 8/7/2024 by Sam Schraub

    If you missed DIIV at their most recent homecoming show at Brooklyn Paramount, make sure to catch them live the next time they’re in New York. With each performance, DIIV not only solidifies their place in the indie music scene but also redefines what it means to create immersive, emotional art.

    All photo credit goes to Sam Schraub

  • NYC Avant-Garde Theatre, The Kitchen, Announces Its 2024 Season

    New York City’s experimental and avant-garde theatre, The Kitchen, announced its programming for the Fall 2024 season. This season combines works from multiple disciplines and collaborations between several institutions and artists, bringing an exciting new collection to their temporary Westbeth Artists Housing stage.

    the kitchen

    Founded in 1971, The Kitchen has provided New York City with exceptional artists, from dancers to muralists and painters. For the last five decades and throughout multiple different venues, it has been a place where the abstract and avant-garde can shine.

    Currently situated in the Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan, this season includes collaborations with longtime partners Protect the Peace with PROTECT THE PEACE: we, INSURGENT, The Kitchen’s Longest-Running Series, Dance and Process, Code Switch: Distributing Blackness, Reprogramming Internet Art, The Kitchen’s first traveling exhibition, and more.

            The full schedule is listed below. Tickets and more information can be found on their website, linked here.

            The Kitchen Fall 2024 Programming Schedule

            The Kitchen in Focus at 47 Canal
            47 Canal (59 Wooster St 2nd floor, New York, NY 10012)
            September 4–14 and September 20–October 26, 2024
            Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-6pm, and by appointment

            PROTECT THE PEACE: we, INSURGENT

            The Kitchen at Westbeth

            September 6, 2024, 6-9pm

            Tickets: Sliding scale $10-30; Tickets on sale August 15

            Dance and Process: Rena Anakwe, ms. z tye, and Ogemdi Ude

            The Kitchen at Westbeth

            Performances: September 20–22, 2024; Time to be announced in early September

            Tickets: Sliding scale; $10-30

            Community Action Center: The Soundtrack

            Site: The Kitchen at Westbeth

            Date: October 8, 2024, 7pm

            Tickets: Sliding scale; $10-30

            Code Switch: Distributing Blackness, Reprogramming Internet Art
            Site: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture [Fall 2024] and Museum of
            Contemporary Art Detroit [Spring 2025]
            Dates: October 15 – December 19, 2024, and April 25 – September 7, 2025
            Schomburg Gallery hours: Free; Monday – Saturday, 10am-6pm

            NIC Kay: The last gasp of the angry white man

            Dia Chelsea, co-presented in partnership with Dia Art Foundation

            October 12, 2024, 5:30pm

            Tickets: Free with RSVP; Reservations open on August 15 via Dia’s website

            JJJJJerome Ellis: Aster of Ceremonies

            The Kitchen at Westbeth

            November 7, 2024, 7pm

            Tickets: Sliding scale; $10-30

            Meredith Monk. Calling Catalogue Launch Party

            The Kitchen at Westbeth

            November 13, 2024, 7pm

            Tickets: Free with RSVP

            Lines of Distribution

            The Kitchen at Westbeth

            November 21, 2024–January 18, 2025

            Regular gallery hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 12–6pm

            Opening weekend programming, including performances and artist roundtable: November 22–23 (Details, tickets, and times to be announced)

          • NYC Band Shower Curtain Release “wish u well” Ahead of Debut Album

            Four-piece alt-rock and shoegaze band, Shower Curtain, has released “wish u well,” the lead single of their upcoming debut album, words from a wishing well, set to release on October 18.

            Photo credit: Nicole Miller @neptunne

            Shower Curtain, a band made up of Brazilian-American vocalist Victoria Winter, Cody Hudgins (Crate) on bass, Ethan Williams (Punchlove) on guitar and Sean Terrell (Fasting) on drums, has been making waves in the NYC alt-rock and shoegaze scenes. Initially debuting in 2020 with a self-titled EP, the band has been building up to a full-length debut, out in October. In the time since their debut EP, Shower Curtain has kept busy, releasing Something Instead, a follow-up EP in 2021, and “meus passos” and “edgar,” two singles last year. Last year’s singles represented a significant milestone in the band’s journey, signaling an artistic evolution from bedroom pop to sludgy rock after a two-year hiatus. As a result, the band has now come into their own. Moreover, Shower Curtain has found a home within Brooklyn’s emerging slowcore and shoegaze scene.

            words from a wishing well album cover

            About The Single

            Their newest offering and first taste off of the upcoming debut record, “wish u well,” offers a connecting thread into words from a wishing well, combining the pop tendencies of early Shower Curtain music with heavier production. One of the last songs written for words from a wishing well, Winter and Williams crafted “wish u well” across a pair of whirlwind sessions in the final days of tracking. “‘wish u well’ is about the feeling of having the rug swept from underneath you,” said Winter.

            In a lot of ways, I think this song is a lot of what my teenage self wished the project could create. That vision has long changed, and I am definitely aware of this song not having the more shoegaze and heavier grunge elements that represent the project’s new phase and is more similar to the old phase of Shower Curtain. Yet, I still think its production is unmatched and next level between Ethan and I.

            – Victoria Winter

            Additionally, a music video, directed by Trevor Scholl and starring Brenna Gonzalez, has been released and features Gonzalez picking up emotional baggage to the point of exhaustion. “It’s an ode to the mentally healing aspect of going for a walk and how stepping out invites the unexplainable. I wanted to capture the sense of exploration found in fantasy films while capturing places we frequent and not relying on overtly “magical” props. ‘wish u well’ is a wistful and bittersweet song. I ultimately wanted to extend these emotions with a daydream in a video,” said Scholl about the making of the video.

            Keep up with Shower Curtain on their Instagram and stream “wish u well” on all platforms. See below for some upcoming shows from the band.

            Upcoming Shows

            August 10 – Philly Style – Philadelphia, PA

            September 23 – Baby’s All Right – Brooklyn, NY

          • BlackJeans takes on the End of The World in Purgatory

            In the large oasis that is New York State’s music scene, it may seem difficult to stand out. Of course, there must be real talent; catchy melodies and hooks, a great ensemble-band that plays live flawlessly, but there’s always that “something” more. Perhaps its the person behind the music, a personality so undeniable that one simply must come and see it and hear it for themselves.

            About BlackJeans

            All of this and more sums up BlackJeans, a Musician and Producer based in Ridgewood, Queens who will be presenting “The End of The World, Part 2” at Purgatory on Friday, August 10. A torchbearer representing a lost art; the art of seduction through music. All in all, BlackJeans has an impressive resume thats bound to make anyones head turn. The event will look to live up to last year’s event by being bigger and better. A tough statement to back up based on last year’s turnout.

            A Musician and Producer in NYC for the last ten years, BlackJeans has packed out shows like Sofar Sounds and venues such as Sultan Room, Brooklyn Bowl and more. Moreover, BlackJeans now finds himself at his biggest moment yet. His latest single “Belladonna” is joined with other certified bops such as “Cellphone“, “Painkiller.” Additionally, songs like “All Too Much” and “Lovin Again” have accompanying music videos which premiered on Vimeo. We sat down with BlackJeans about what goes into making his music. We also discussed his highly-anticipated show on August 10 at Purgatory.

            TDW: What would you say your biggest influences are?

            BlackJeans: Ooh baby, these days anything that gets me hot and bothered and ready to dance. Rhythm, tempo, and anything that feels like a party. Disco, electronic, house, salsa, big band swing. Put a little dirt on it and i’ll eat it right up and howl probably.

            TDW: How would you best describe your sound?

            BlackJeans: Thats a great question. Typically, I would do everything I can not to describe it…I’d say it sounds like seedy basement dance music that was tucked away in a forgotten section of an old denim factory in Ridgewood, Queens. Drum and bass-groove heavy music that you’d find in a damp speak easy with neon lights. Paired well with cocktails and a late night afterparty.

            TDW: What is The End Of The World?

            BlackJeans: The End Of The World is an event series im continuing to throw in NY for all the sexy late bloomers, weirdos, misfits, queers, and people who know how to turn it the fuck out. Its equal parts dance party, live show, and carnival with variety performers, a live set of music and always a special guest DJ. Chock full of free prizes, drinks, and some other stuff I cant get into here. Oh, and theres always a dress code.

            TDW: What plays into your songwriting?

            BlackJeans: I love love. Cant get away from it. Love is a mixed bag. Covers an overwhelmingly wide range, yea? It can make you feel alive, it can mess you up, make you wanna dance, make you wanna cry…sometimes all of these things at the SAME TIME! I think that juxtaposition and duality is beautiful and were all probably feeling it effects on any given day. I don’t really believe in genre, I like too many of them and I probably haven’t even heard them all! So Im going to keep playing in as many that feel right, its 2024, best be genre bending. For now, I’m wrapped up in dance music like someone who’s been tumbling in a washing machine for 7 months straight. With no AC or lights…

            TDW: What can people expect from The End Of The World Part 2

            BlackJeans: Im going to be clear with you. You can expect an EP’s worth of new music, a gorilla in lingere giving a lap dance to a horse, burlesque hoola hoopers, me growing 8 feet tall, a free round of drinks, and a DJ set by Souldrippp. Shes amazing and I’m shocked we got her to agree to come here all the way from France. Thats like 27% of what you can expect. Okay?

            All this to say, momentum is on BlackJeans side. While August 10 will be an evening to capitalize on. Epic tunes, costumes and gorillias galore, who know what antics him and his band well be up to this time, very limited tickets remain for The End Of The World Part 2 at Purgatory.

          • Kevin Hart Announces Two New York Dates for 2025 Tour

            Comedian Kevin Hart has announced two New York shows as part of his 2024-2025 “Acting My Age” tour. This tour will see Hart perform at Buffalo’s Shea’s Performing Arts Center and Manhattan’s Radio City Music Hall.

            Kevin Hart's "Acting My Age" tour

            Philadelphia’s Kevin Hart is one of the biggest names in comedy today. Following years of local shows, Hart shot to fame with his 2009 I’m a Grown Little Man tour. After years of standup performances, Hart made the jump to the big screen, starring in 11 number one box office films. Now, Hart is viewed as one of the most influential figures in Hollywood, grossing over $4.2 billion through his movies. 2024 marks a special year for Hart, with him winning the 25th Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy from the Kennedy Center.

            As part of this monumental year, Hart will launch his “Acting My Age” tour in late August. This marks Hart’s ninth comedy tour, following his award winning 2022 “Reality Check” and 2020 ““Zero Fu**ks Given” shows. As part of this tour, Hart seeks to create an intimate environment where he can connect with audience members. Due to this, the shows will be phone-free experiences.

            Kevin Hart’s “Acting My Age” tour will begin on Friday, August 23rd in Seattle, Washington. Following this, Hart will snake his way across the country, playing everywhere from Phoenix to Boston. Following 37 dates, the first leg of the tour will conclude with two nights in Philadelphia on December 4th and 5th.

            In addition to these dates, Hart has announced an additional ten dates for early 2025. Among these performances are two New York dates. On Friday, January 24th, Hart will perform at Buffalo’s Shea’s Performing Arts Center. Shea’s opened in 1926 as a silent movie theater near the heart of Buffalo. Since its opening, the theater has hosted countless touring artists, including Frank Sinatra, Steely Dan, and Jerry Seinfeld. The theater’s modern sound and lighting equipment is paired with its original intricate decor, making it one of Buffalo’s premier concert venues.

            Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Photo source: visitbuffaloniagara.com

            Following his Buffalo date, Hart will travel down to New York City to perform at Radio City Music Hall on March 7th. Radio City, also known as “The Showplace of the Nation,” sits at the center of Manhattan’s live music scene. Since its opening in 1932, Radio City has become famous for housing the annual Christmas Spectacular and Late Night with David Letterman show. In addition, the 5,960-person theater has hosted everyone from the Grateful Dead to Liberace.

            Ticket sales begin on Wednesday, August 7th. General on-sale will follow on Friday, August 9th at 10am. For more information, visit Kevin Hart’s website here.

            KEVIN HART 2024 UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

            8/23 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater

            8/23 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater – LATE SHOW 

            8/24 – Portland, OR – Keller Auditorium

            8/25 – Spokane, WA – ONE Spokane Stadium

            8/31 – Coachella, CA – Spotlight 29 Casino

            9/1 – Las Vegas, NV – Resorts World Las Vegas

            9/6 – York University, ON – The Bowl at Sobey’s Stadium

            9/13 – Washington, DC – DAR Constitution Hall

            9/14 – Washington, DC – DAR Constitution Hall

            9/15 – Washington, DC – DAR Constitution Hall

            9/20 – Houston, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

            9/21 – Houston, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

            9/22 – Jackson, MS – Thalia Mara Hall 

            9/22 – Jackson, MS – Thalia Mara Hall – LATE SHOW 

            9/27 – Richmond, VA – Altria Theater

            9/28 – Richmond, VA – Altria Theater

            9/29 – Norfolk, VA – Chrysler Hall

            9/29 – Norfolk, VA – Chrysler Hall – LATE SHOW

            10/05 – Denver, CO – Bellco Theatre

            10/06 – Denver, CO – Bellco Theatre

            10/11 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

            10/12 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

            10/13 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

            10/18 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre

            10/19 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre

            10/20 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

            10/25 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre

            10/26 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre

            10/26 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre – LATE SHOW

            10/27 – Sacramento, CA – Hard Rock Live

            11/08 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre

            11/09 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

            11/10 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre

            11/15 – Cleveland, OH – KeyBank State Theatre

            11/16 – Cleveland, OH – KeyBank State Theatre

            11/17 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre

            11/17 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre – LATE SHOW

            12/04 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark

            12/05 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark

            KEVIN HART 2025 TOUR DATES – JUST ADDED:

            1/03 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre

            1/10 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre

            1/17 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium

            1/24 – Buffalo, NY – Shea’s Performing Arts Center

            1/31 – Austin, TX – Bass Concert Hall 

            2/8 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre

            2/15 – Durham, NC – DPAC

            2/21 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory

            3/07 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall

            3/28 – Baltimore, MD – Lyric Baltimore